MPs Debate Business Rates

Away from debating Brexit, MPs still found time to debate the important issue of business rates and the negative impact they are having on independent retailers. Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown called
an ‘adjournment debate’ to discuss business rates. Many MPs contributed to the debate and the unanimous opinion was that business rates had to change and be reduced in order to support the small
independent retail businesses and give them the opportunity to prosper and grow.

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of the British Independent Retailers Association (Bira), says “I am delighted that MPs have found time to support our call for changes to business rates. Bira has been
advocating a business rates allowance for those retailers with a rateable value below £51,000, and the comments of the many MPs at this debate confirm that we are making a good proposal that will be
considered by the Treasury. Bira will also be looking to make a positive contribution to the new Treasury Select Committee enquiry into business rates as we look to change this system for the better
for all retailers”